The common reasons
1. The value is over the ₱10,000 de minimis
Shipments with a goods (FOB) value above ₱10,000 must be assessed for customs duty and 12% VAT before release. Your package waits while that assessment and payment happen.
2. The consolidation rule was triggered
Under CAO 02-2025, if several packages addressed to you arrive at the same address on the same day, customs may add their values together. Even if each one is under ₱10,000, the combined total can cross the threshold and become taxable.
3. Random or physical inspection
Customs screens parcels using risk management — many are x-rayed, and some are opened for physical inspection on a random basis. This adds time even when nothing is wrong.
4. The item is restricted or needs a permit
Some goods require clearance from other agencies — for example, cosmetics, supplements, and food (FDA), or certain electronics and radio devices (NTC). These take longer and may need documentation.
5. The declared value looks incomplete or too low
If the invoice or declaration is missing, inconsistent, or appears undervalued, customs may hold the parcel to verify the real price.
6. Duties and fees are pending payment
Once assessed, the package is held until the duties, VAT, and any courier or postal fees are paid.
How long does it take?
It varies. Many parcels clear within a few days, but assessment, inspection, or permit checks can stretch it to one to two weeks or more. Courier shipments often move faster than regular postal mail.
What you can do
- ▸Track through your courier, not just the seller's app — the courier handles the actual clearance.
- ▸Respond quickly if the courier asks for an invoice, ID, or payment.
- ▸Pay the assessed duties to release the package.
- ▸For postal items, watch for a notice card from PHLPOST telling you to claim and pay at the post office.
- ▸If it's stuck unusually long, contact the courier first — they can tell you what customs is waiting for.
How to avoid delays next time
Keep your order receipt as proof of the real price, avoid splitting one purchase into many same-day parcels, steer clear of restricted items, and check the likely tax before you buy.
Estimate your likely duty and VAT before you buy
Our free calculator shows the duty, 12% VAT, and total landed cost in seconds.
Open the calculator →This guide is for general information only and isn't legal or customs advice. For your specific shipment, check with your courier or the Bureau of Customs.